Level 3 Diploma for Residential Childcare (England) (RQF)
The Essential Qualification for Professionals Working in Children’s Residential Settings
This diploma is fully accredited by Highfield Qualifications.
- Course Fee: £1,195
- Duration: 9 to 18 months (self-paced)
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About Our Training
Course Overview
The Highfield Level 3 Diploma for Residential Childcare (RQF)Â is a mandatory qualification for anyone working in a residential childcare setting in England. This Ofqual-regulated diploma is designed to develop the core knowledge, values, and practical skills required to work confidently and compliantly with children and young people in care.
Whether you are a residential support worker, key worker, or just starting your career in children’s services, this qualification prepares you to provide safe, effective, and therapeutic care in accordance with the Children’s Homes (England) Regulations 2015 and Ofsted standards.
Who Should Take This Course?
This course is ideal for:
- Residential Childcare Workers / Support Workers
- Key Workers in children’s homes
- Therapeutic care assistants
- Newly employed staff in Ofsted-regulated children’s homes
- Apprentices and individuals seeking formal recognition in residential childcare
This qualification is a requirement for anyone who has started working in a children’s residential home since April 2015.
Assessment Method
✔ Competency-based – assessed in the workplace
✔ No written exams
✔ Assessment methods include:
- Direct observation
- Written assignments and reflective accounts
- Witness testimonies
- Professional discussions
- Portfolio of evidence
Your learning is fully supported by a dedicated assessor from Hilmas who will guide and observe your practice.
Course Duration & Delivery
Study Format | Blended Learning (Online + On-site Observation) |
Duration | 9 – 18 months (self-paced) |
Start Date | Flexible – Enrol any time |
Support | 1:1 Assessor Guidance + E-Portfolio Access |
What You Will Gain
By completing this qualification, you will:
- Meet the mandatory training requirement for residential childcare workers in England
- Gain confidence in safeguarding, behaviour management, and care planning
- Develop trauma-informed and attachment-aware practice
- Become eligible for progression to Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare
- Build strong foundations for a long-term career in children’s residential care
Course Fees
🎓 Total Cost: £1,195 – All Inclusive
Includes:
- Registration with Highfield
- Dedicated tutor support
- E-portfolio system access
- Observations and certification
💳 Flexible Payment Options Available:
- Pay in full or
- Monthly instalments (interest-free)
FAQs
What is an RQF qualification?
RQF stands for Regulated Qualifications Framework. It replaced QCF and NVQ and ensures the course meets modern standards for care and leadership training.
Do I get support throughout the course?
Yes! You’ll have:
- A personal course assessor
- 24/7 access to our dedicated diploma support team
Can I pay in instalments or get a group discount?
Yes. Discounts are available for bulk enrolments. Speak to an advisor to discuss your options.
Course Structure
To achieve the full diploma, learners must complete a total of 61 credits, covering the following mandatory units:
Key Topics Covered:
1.Understand children and young people’s development in residential childcare
2.Support risk management in residential childcare
3.Promote positive behaviour
4.Safeguard and protect children and young people in residential childcare
5.Support children and young people to achieve their educational potential
6.Support the development of socially aware behaviour
7.Engage in professional development
8.Understand the care system and its impact on children
9.Support group living in residential childcare
10.Work collaboratively to support the health and well-being of children
11.Lead and manage relationships in residential childcare settings
12.Support children and young people in transitions and significant life events
Additional optional units may be selected based on your role and the needs of the service.
Why Choose Hilmas Care Training?
We support individuals and care organisations across the UK by delivering workplace training that enhances safety, productivity, and wellbeing. All our courses are fully accredited and aligned with current regulatory frameworks, so you can rest assured you’re in expert hands.
Industry Recognised Training
All our diploma programmes are delivered through a flexible e-portfolio system, ensuring learners gain occupational competence while working at their own pace. With every course fully accredited, you can be confident you're receiving industry-recognised training that meets the highest standards.
Training That Works Around You
We offer flexible training options, including evening, weekend, and online delivery. With a dedicated account manager assigned to every client, we go beyond box-ticking – we build partnerships that support long-term workforce development.
Trusted Accreditation & Quality Assurance
All our Diplomas are accredited by Ofqual-recognised awarding bodies, including Highfield Qualifications and focus award.
Study from Anywhere – Learn at Your Pace
We now offer full distance learning and online e-portfolio access for our diploma learners. Our experienced assessors provide personalised support, ensuring you stay on track, motivated, and confident from enrolment to certification.
Need Help Enrolling?
Call our 24/7 Freephone: Â 0161 222 9005
Or, fill in the quick form below and one of our training advisors will get back to you:
Hilmas Training – Your Trusted Healthcare Training Provider
Address
1 City Approach, Salford M30 0BL
Opening Hours
- Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
- Phone: 01612229005
- Whatsapp: 07438470844
- Email: support@hilmastraining.co.uk
Our Accreditations & Certifications
Hilmas Training take pride in offering high-quality, fully accredited training that meets industry standards and regulatory requirements. Our courses are recognized, approved, and trusted by leading awarding bodies, ensuring that our learners receive certifications that are valued by employers in the healthcare sector.
